The Buffalo Bills released a statement on Buddy Ryan's passing on Tuesday.

06/28/2016

Buddy Ryan was 82 years old.

Buddy Ryan, the architect of the "46" defense passed away on Tuesday at the age of 82. Ryan, the father of Buffalo Bills coaches Rex Ryan and Rob Ryan, is best known for his stint as defensive coordinator of the Chicago Bears. Ryan's defense was dominant in 1985, allowing just 12.9 points per game in the regular season. In the 1985 playoffs, Chicago's opposition scored a total of 10 points over three games.

The Bills released a statement on Buddy Ryan's passing on Tuesday morning.

"Terry and Kim Pegula and the Buffalo Bills organization want to express their deepest sympathies and condolences to Rex, Rob and the entire Ryan family on the passing of their dad, Buddy Ryan. Buddy was a legend in our league in so many ways. His defenses were innovative and he was a master at putting his talented and tough players in a position to succeed. He was a real game changer and much of his philosophies and defensive tactics are still utilized effectively by teams today. Buddy's influence will be carried on by defensive coaches for generations to come, but none more so than by Rex and Rob. Our heartfelt thoughts and prayers are with the Ryan family today."